First-Generation College Students and Study Abroad

Reviews / Votes

"The editors have assembled an impressive array of scholars, faculty members, staff members, practitioners, and experts who explore myriad strengths-based approaches for enhancing study abroad experiences for first-generation students. As someone who has worked in international education, and presently serves as a senior international officer, I can say that this book is a must-read for anyone committed to rethinking higher education and harnessing the strengths of first-generation college students to create a more equitable and enriching education abroad experiences. Beyond the diversity of topics, such as strengths-based approaches, faculty & staff development, addressing structural inequities, utilizing storytelling, and addressing intersectional needs of students who are both first-generation and Hispanic, or disabled, or international, this book also includes important information on the correlations between education abroad and retention. On a personal level, as a first-generation college student who did not study abroad as an undergraduate student, I wish the educators at my alma mater had this book in their hands when I was a student."

- Eduardo "Eddie" Contreras is the Vice Provost for Global Engagement at Baylor University, Texas, where he is the senior international officer.

"This thoughtfully curated volume shines a much-needed light on the transformative potential of study abroad experiences for first-generation college students. Through a strengths-based lens, it offers practical insights and affirming strategies for administrators, faculty, and staff who are committed to expanding global learning opportunities for this talented and resilient student population. [...] I'm confident it will serve as both a guide and an inspiration for institutions seeking to engage first-gen students in global learning."

- Julie Carballo, M.Ed., M.A., Assistant Dean of Students for First-Generation and Military-Affiliated Initiatives at North Central College, Naperville, IL, and Founding Director of Cardinal First-North Central College's nationally recognized program for first-gen students from Day 1 to graduation

"This book launches a much-needed conversation about the purpose, history and participation in study abroad and the necessity to name structures of inequality in study abroad programs with specific insights on how to re-shape programs for greater accessibility. Readers will find that contributions include both the theoretical heft to engage in a critical review of current frameworks and policies as well as practical strategies to re-design study abroad from a strengths-based perspective. At the center of this book is an asset-based view of first-generation college students with attention to how their complex positionality can inform re-shaping study abroad in ways that enhance their personal growth and enhance institutional outcomes."

- Rashne Jehangir, PhD, Professor & Assistant Dean for Education Opportunity Programs. Author of Decoding the Academy: A Roadmap for First-generation College Students Through Graduate Education & Higher Education and First-Generation Students: Cultivating Community, Voice, and Place for the New Majority